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An anti-smoking group is resuming a push to increase taxes on tobacco in Michigan, including a cigarette tax increase of up to a dollar-fifty-per pack.
That would bring the per-pack tax in Michigan to $3.50.
The American Cancer Society also wants lawmakers to significantly increase taxes on other tobacco products, including more than doubling the tax on tobacco that for example, is offered in hookah bars.
Andrew Schepers, lobbyist for the American Cancer Society, says increasing tobacco taxes goes a long way in discouraging tobacco sales and consumption.
The ACS has issued a report that says Michigan is falling short when it comes to public policies designed to reduce tobacco use. According to the report,
Michigan currently allocates $1.5 million for tobacco prevention services, which is less than two percent of the Centers for Disease Control’s recommended funding level.
